As the cooler days of autumn approach and the leaves begin to turn, there’s one dessert that never fails to bring warmth and comfort to my kitchen: Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie. It’s like uniting two of my favorite treats in one heavenly creation! The enticing aroma of sweet cinnamon wafts through the air while the tender apples bubble below a crispy, cinnamon-scented topping. This pie stands out among traditional desserts, making it perfect for cozy family gatherings or holiday celebrations.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can choose to whip it up from scratch or take a shortcut with store-bought ingredients—perfect for any busy home chef. Plus, the delightful crunch of the cinnamon roll topping adds a fun twist, making it an instant hit with everyone who takes a bite. As you dig in, the gooey apple filling pairs beautifully with the crisp crust, creating a dessert that feels both elegant and homey. Let’s dive into the process of crafting this stunning treat that will impress your guests and fill your home with sweet memories!
Why is Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie so special?
Irresistible combination: This Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie blends two beloved desserts into one splendid creation, making it an instant showstopper.
Easy prep: With options for store-bought ingredients or a homemade twist, this recipe fits any skill level.
Crowd-pleaser: Its warm, gooey filling paired with a crunchy topping has universal appeal that will delight guests of all ages.
Versatile variations: Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or reaching for different fruits, like pears, to cater to your family’s tastes.
Heartwarming aroma: The scent of cinnamon fills the air as it bakes, elevating your kitchen into a cozy haven.
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Ingredients
• Perfect for baking lovers!
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For the Pie Crust
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Pie Dough – Use 1 store-bought or homemade crust at the base, and 2 for the cinnamon roll topping; refrigerated options save time.
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For the Apple Filling
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Apple Pie Filling – Two cans or 7-8 cups of fresh apples works well; honey crisp or Granny Smith provide the best flavor.
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Unsalted Butter – Melts into the filling and topping for richness; stick with unsalted for best seasoning control.
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Brown Sugar or Granulated Sugar – Sweeten your pie with the sugar of your choice; adjust for personal sweetness preference.
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Ground Cinnamon – A key flavor enhancer; freshly ground brings a stronger depth compared to pre-ground varieties.
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Salt – Elevates all the flavors; aim for fine sea salt for a clean taste.
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For the Topping
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Egg – Serves as an egg wash to give the top a beautiful glossy finish; substitute with milk for a simpler alternative if needed.
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Coarse or Turbinado Sugar – An optional sprinkle for added sweetness and crunch on your cinnamon roll topping.
This delightful pie with its Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie ingredients brings home-baked comfort to your table!
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
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Prepare Dough: Roll out both the base pie crust and the cinnamon roll topping dough; place the base in a pie plate, trimming and crimping the edges to create a lovely border.
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Make Cinnamon Roll Topping: Brush melted butter generously over the topping dough. Evenly sprinkle with sugar and ground cinnamon, then roll it tightly. Chill for 30 minutes before slicing into round pieces.
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Assemble Pie: Pour the apple pie filling into the prepared base crust, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Arrange the sliced cinnamon roll toppings beautifully over the filling for a stunning look.
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Chill and Brush: Place the assembled pie in the fridge until firm, around 15-20 minutes. Brush the topping with egg wash to enhance its golden color and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
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Bake: Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 60-80 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling delightfully. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing into this scrumptious treat.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra special touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
- Dough Consistency: Ensure your pie crust and cinnamon roll topping dough are neither too sticky nor too dry; a balanced texture will help maintain their shape during baking.
- Chill for Success: Chilling your rolled cinnamon topping before slicing helps firm it up and makes for cleaner, prettier slices—don’t skip this step!
- Even Slices: Slice your cinnamon roll topping evenly to ensure even baking and a more visually appealing pie; uneven pieces can result in uneven cooking.
- Cover If Necessary: If the edges of the crust brown too quickly, loosely cover them with aluminum foil; this prevents burning and allows the filling to cook through.
- Store Properly: For the best flavor and texture, consume your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie within a few days, or store leftovers in the fridge to keep it fresh.
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Variations
Customize your Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie with these delightful twists that enhance flavor and cater to your cravings!
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Pear Twist: Substitute apples with ripe pears for a unique fruity flavor. The subtle sweetness of pears will beautifully complement the cinnamon.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for a delightful texture contrast. The added crunch will create a lovely surprise in every bite.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce on top for an indulgent finish. The sweet, sticky caramel pairs perfectly with the warm cinnamon and apples.
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Spice it Up: Include a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the apple filling for an aromatic warmth. This layered flavor will elevate your pie to new heights.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pie crust mix for the base and topping. It’s simple to make and allows everyone to enjoy this delicious dessert.
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Tropical Delight: Incorporate some diced pineapple into the filling for a fruity twist. This addition will create an unexpected but refreshing flavor that’s sure to delight!
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Cream Cheese Swirl: Mix softened cream cheese with a bit of sugar and vanilla, and swirl it into the apple filling. This adds a creamy richness that will leave everyone craving more!
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Extra Cinnamon Crisp: Toss a little more ground cinnamon with the crust to reinforce that warming spice throughout the pie. It will make your pie irresistibly fragrant and delicious!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Roll Apple Pies are a fantastic solution for busy weeknights or special gatherings! You can prepare the pie crust and cinnamon roll topping up to 3 days in advance, storing them in the refrigerator (wrapped tightly to avoid drying out). You can also slice the cinnamon roll topping ahead of time and refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply fill the pie crust with your apple filling and arrange the chilled cinnamon roll slices on top. Bake as directed, and enjoy the comforting aroma filling your kitchen—just as delicious and fresh, but with far less stress!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie?
To create a delightful meal experience alongside this sweet masterpiece, consider these comforting pairings.
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Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of ice cream provides a perfect contrast to the warm, cinnamon-filled pie. A scoop on the side elevates every bite.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel over the pie enhances its sweetness and adds a delightful richness that guests will love.
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Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream balances the pie’s dense texture. Infuse it with a pinch of cinnamon for a complimentary flavor boost.
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Spiced Tea: A warm cup of spiced tea offers a cozy drink option, perfect for enjoying with pie on chilly evenings. The aromatic flavors harmonize beautifully with the cinnamon.
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Roasted Nuts: Crunchy roasted walnuts or pecans add an unexpected earthy flavor and texture. Their nutty notes enrich the overall dessert experience.
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Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad with crisp apples and citrus adds brightness to the meal, making it feel fresh and well-rounded.
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Mulled Cider: This warm drink, infused with spices, aligns perfectly with the pie’s flavors, creating a comforting autumnal vibe that envelops your gathering.
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Cinnamon Roll Biscuits: Keep the theme going with fluffy cinnamon roll biscuits, providing a delightful twist and a way to enjoy more of that sweet, comforting flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
Room Temperature: Store at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, covered loosely with plastic wrap or foil to maintain texture and prevent drying out.
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for an additional 2 days to preserve freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil; it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Enjoy the comforting taste of Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie fresh from the oven!
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the filling?
For the best flavor, I recommend using Honey Crisp or Granny Smith apples. These varieties offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, which complements the cinnamon roll topping beautifully.
How should I store leftovers of my Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie?
To keep your pie fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you have leftovers after that time, transfer them to an airtight container and keep in the fridge, where they will stay good for another 2 days.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if the pie crust is browning too quickly while baking?
If you notice the edges of your pie crust browning too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil. This will protect the crust from burning while allowing the filling to cook through. It’s a simple trick to keep your pie looking perfect!
Is this pie safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes, this Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is nut-free as long as you avoid adding any nuts to the filling or topping. However, always double-check your ingredients, especially if using store-bought options, as some products may contain traces of nuts.
Can I use store-bought pie crust and filling?
Very! This recipe allows for convenience by using store-bought pie crust and apple pie filling, making it a quick option for home cooks of all skill levels. Just remember to check the package for quality and flavor!
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie: A Tasty Twist on a Classic Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Roll out both the base pie crust and the cinnamon roll topping dough; place the base in a pie plate, trimming and crimping the edges to create a lovely border.
- Brush melted butter generously over the topping dough. Evenly sprinkle with sugar and ground cinnamon, then roll it tightly. Chill for 30 minutes before slicing into round pieces.
- Pour the apple pie filling into the prepared base crust, ensuring it's evenly distributed. Arrange the sliced cinnamon roll toppings beautifully over the filling.
- Place the assembled pie in the fridge until firm, around 15-20 minutes. Brush the topping with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
- Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 60-80 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.